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Butterfly Bush

Butterfly Bush, also known as Buddleia, is a beloved deciduous shrub celebrated for its fragrant, cone-shaped flower clusters that attract many butterflies and other pollinators. With its arching branches and a spectrum of colors ranging from purples to pinks and whites, Butterfly Bushes contribute to the beauty of gardens and create a fluttering haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

What Are Butterfly Bushes?

Butterfly bushes, also known by their botanical name buddleia, are flowering shrubs celebrated for their long, arching blooms that attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and pollinators. Known for their fast growth, colorful flower spikes, and low-maintenance nature, butterfly bushes are a must-have for any pollinator garden or sunny landscape. Available in various sizes and colors—from bold purples and pinks to soft pastels—these fragrant shrubs bloom from summer into fall. If you're looking for butterfly bushes for sale, you're in the right place. At Plants by Mail, we offer hand-selected varieties perfect for borders, containers, or focal points that buzz with life.

How to Care for Butterfly Bush Plants

Caring for butterfly bush plants is easy—even for beginner gardeners. These sun-loving shrubs thrive in full sun (6+ hours daily) and require well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Once established, buddleia are drought-tolerant and prefer deep but infrequent watering. Plant them in an open area with good air circulation to promote healthy blooms and strong stems.

Butterfly bushes are generally hardy in USDA Zones 5–9, with some newer compact varieties adapting well to Zone 10. To keep your butterfly bush blooming strong, prune it back in late winter or early spring—just before new growth appears. A hard prune encourages vigorous flowering and a tidy, bushier shape throughout the growing season.

Do butterfly bushes come back every year?
Yes! Most butterfly bush varieties are reliable perennials in Zones 5–9. After going dormant in winter, they return with vigorous growth and colorful blooms in spring and summer. With proper pruning and care, your buddleia will thrive for years.
How big does a butterfly bush get?
The mature size depends on the variety. Standard buddleia can reach 6–10 feet tall and wide, while dwarf varieties, like our Butterfly Candy Buddleia, are compact 2–4 feet—perfect for small spaces or containers.
Do butterfly bushes need full sun?
Absolutely. Butterfly bushes perform best in full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. More sun equals more flowers—and more pollinators! In shadier locations, blooming may be reduced, and growth can become leggy.
Are butterfly bushes invasive?
Some older varieties of butterfly bush were known to spread aggressively in certain regions. However, many modern cultivars—especially those we offer—are non-invasive or sterile, meaning they won't reseed and take over your landscape.
When and how should I prune my butterfly bush?
Prune your butterfly bush in late winter or early spring, cutting it back to about 12–24 inches from the ground. Pruning encourages robust new growth and abundant flowering. Avoid pruning in the fall, as this can damage the plant in cold weather.

Butterfly Bush

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